Japanese American gardeners have been an integral part of the Southern California landscape

Japanese American gardeners have been an integral part of the Southern California landscape. We see the evidence of their labor, thousands of well-kept lawns and gardens, and hundreds of community beautification projects.
     But there is more to the story: these same individuals were also the economic backbone of a whole ethnic community. They created community-based credit unions, cultural centers, and Japanese-language schools. Through their efforts, their children were able to gain college degrees and pursue professional careers.
    Here lies the mystery. Why did so many Japanese Americans--reportedly up to 8,000 in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s--enter the field of gardening? Why did some college graduates choose this grueling work, especially during the 100-plus degree summers, before and after World War II? Who are these men and women? And how were they able to make a desert green for the next generation?
    The book, GREEN MAKERS: Japanese American Gardeners in Southern California seeks to provide answers to these mysteries.

You can purchase this book at Co-op store below or
Click here to How to order

Southern California Gardeners' Federation
333 S. San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone (213)628-1595 Fax (213)628-1330
info@scgf.org